Cider Vinegar is a sour tasting liquid derived by the process of oxidation of alcohol present in cider. Cider is obtained by fermenting apple with yeast. It is derived by 2 step fermentation process. Its commonly used as a preservative as well as a condiment. It has a milder flavor as compared to wine vinegar. It is a pale to medium amber colored beverage. Due to its acidic nature, cider vinegar is very harsh and may cause burning or irritation to the throat. Hence it should be diluted with warm water before consuming as a supplement. Its frequent consumption may also; lead to certain side effects like irritability, palpitation and nervousness.

How to Select

It is available in almost all food malls or supermarkets, branded under the name "American Cider Vinegar". Also you can book it online. For eg; Somerset Cider Vinegar, BRAGG Cider Vinegar and other organic ones. It is available in glass jars or bottles.

Culinary Uses

Apple Cider Vinegar is considered one of the versatile ingredients in cooking." It is used to tenderize the meat" It can be applied on crust of the bread to improve its luster." It is used as a substitute effectively and is a major ingredient in most condiments." When vegetables and fruits are rinsed with diluted cider vinegar, it helps to remove the dirt, chemical spray residue and even bugs. " The bacteria present on stored vegetables and fruits can be killed by soaking them in cider vinegar solution." Add 1 tbsp of cider vinegar while steaming the vegetables. This will help retain the green color." To avoid browning of the already cut fruits such as apples, pears and vegetables like potatoes, just rinse them in diluted cider vinegar." When the eggs are hard boiled, the egg white might leak out from the shell. This can be avoided by adding cider vinegar to the boiling water." The flavor of pastas and casseroles can be improved by adding a dash of cider vinegar." Cheese remains soft and mold free by wrapping and storing it in a cloth dipped in cider vinegar solution.

How to Store

Apple cider vinegar in itself is a preservative and does not go bad on storage, may be some minimal changes in flavor may happen. However it is recommended to store it in a dark place, preferably in black colored container to protect it from light. Always remember to cap the bottle once opened.

Health Benefits

" It is considered as remedy to treat ailments such as gout, arthritis, Candida infection, warts, allergies and burns." Regular application of Cider vinegar helps treat acne of skin and improves skin texture." It is said to cure appendicitis." Studies show that it helps protect blood from becoming thick and thus prevent hypertension and helps protect heart. " Due to the presence of water soluble fiber Pectin, it helps to reduce blood cholesterol." It consists of minerals such as potassium, chlorine, magnesium, sodium and calcium; which are required for various functions in the body." Vitamins such as beta carotene are also obtained from the cider. It helps in reducing oxidative stress and plays an important role in functioning of the retina in the eye." It helps in breakdown of the food and prevents harmful bacteria from multiplying, thus has anti bacterial property." Daily consumption helps lose weight by speeding up the metabolism.